How to change Android keyboard

Complete guide with multiple methods and troubleshooting

7-10 min read
Expert Verified
Last Updated: August 2025

Quick Answer

Changing the keyboard on your Android device can enhance your typing experience by allowing you to customize features such as layout, themes, and predictive text. This guide provides comprehensive methods to change your Android keyboard, whether you want to switch to a different keyboard app or modify the settings of your current one.

Easy⏱ 7-10 min read

Prerequisites & Requirements

Before changing your Android keyboard, ensure you have the following:
  • •An Android device running Android 5.0 (Lollipop) or later.
  • •Sufficient storage space to install new keyboard apps (typically 50 MB or more).
  • •Internet connection if downloading a new keyboard app.
  • •Permissions to install apps from the Google Play Store or other sources.

Method 1: Changing the Keyboard through Settings

This method is ideal for users who want to switch between pre-installed keyboards or enable a downloaded keyboard app.
  • •Step 1: Open the 'Settings' app on your device. This can usually be found in your app drawer or by swiping down the notification shade and tapping the gear icon.
  • •Step 2: Scroll down and select 'System' (or 'General Management' on some devices).
  • •Step 3: Tap on 'Languages & input'.
  • •Step 4: Under 'Keyboard & input methods', tap on 'Virtual keyboard'.
  • •Step 5: Select 'Manage keyboards' to see all available keyboards.
  • •Step 6: Toggle on the keyboard you wish to use. You may need to grant permissions if prompted.
  • •Step 7: To set the new keyboard as default, go back to 'Virtual keyboard', tap on 'Current keyboard', and select your new keyboard.
  • •Step 8: Verify the change by opening any app that requires typing, such as Messages or Notes, and check if the new keyboard appears.

For Android 11 and 12

Android 11 and 12 have a slightly different layout in settings.
  • •Step 1: Go to 'Settings'.
  • •Step 2: Tap on 'System' > 'Languages & input'.
  • •Step 3: Select 'On-screen keyboard' > 'Manage keyboards'.
  • •Step 4: Enable the desired keyboard and set it as default.

For Android 10 and earlier

Older versions may have different paths.
  • •Step 1: Open 'Settings'.
  • •Step 2: Tap 'Language & input'.
  • •Step 3: Under 'Keyboard & input methods', select 'Current keyboard'.
  • •Step 4: Choose your preferred keyboard from the list.

Method 2: Installing a Third-Party Keyboard App

This method is useful for users looking for advanced features not available in the default keyboard.
  • •Step 1: Open the 'Google Play Store' app.
  • •Step 2: Search for a keyboard app (e.g., Gboard, SwiftKey, or AnySoftKeyboard).
  • •Step 3: Tap on the desired app and select 'Install'.
  • •Step 4: Once installed, follow the steps in Method 1 to enable the new keyboard.
  • •Step 5: Open the app and customize settings as desired.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you encounter issues while changing your keyboard, consider the following solutions:
  • •Error: 'Keyboard not responding' - Solution: Restart your device and ensure the keyboard app is updated.
  • •Issue: 'New keyboard not appearing' - Fix: Check if the keyboard is enabled in 'Manage keyboards' and set as default.
  • •Problem: 'Typing lag' - Workaround: Clear the cache of the keyboard app via 'Settings' > 'Apps' > [Keyboard App] > 'Storage' > 'Clear Cache'.

Advanced Tips & Shortcuts

For power users, here are some tips to enhance your keyboard experience:
  • •Keyboard shortcut: Long press on the space bar - Switch between languages quickly.
  • •Hidden feature: Gesture typing - Enable in keyboard settings for faster input.
  • •Customization: Change themes and layouts in keyboard settings for a personalized look.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common pitfalls:

Expert Tips

Choosing the right keyboard app can significantly enhance your typing experience and productivity.